Jane Fonda has been a longstanding presence in the celebrity world. At 85, she is undoubtedly in the twilight of her career, though she continues to work. Despite concerns from some fans due to her advanced age and health scares, the actress herself recently shared her perspective on death, emphasizing that she is “not scared.”
Having spent nearly her entire life in the spotlight, Fonda is now dedicated to using her remaining time on Earth to advocate for celebrities to use their voices for important causes. In a recent interview, the Grace and Frankie star expressed that while she is “not afraid of death,” she acknowledges that her time is limited and understands that it will come “sooner rather than later.”
In September of the previous year, Fonda disclosed that she had received a diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Speaking openly with Entertainment Tonight, she remarked, “I’m not going to be around for much longer.”
She continued, reflecting on her age, “When you get to be my age, you better be aware of the amount of time that is behind you, as opposed to in front of you. I mean, that’s just realistic.”
After revealing her cancer diagnosis, Fonda shared that she would undergo chemotherapy treatment. In an Instagram post, she wrote, “So, my dear friends, I have something personal I want to share. I’ve been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and have started chemo treatments. This is a very treatable cancer. 80% of people survive, so I feel very lucky.”
Acknowledging her privilege, she added, “I’m also lucky because I have health insurance and access to the best doctors and treatments. I realize, and it’s painful, that I am privileged in this. Almost every family in America has had to deal with cancer at one time or another, and far too many don’t have access to the quality health care I am receiving, and this is not right.”
Expressing her readiness for what lies ahead, she told ET, “I’ve had a great life. Not that I want to go, but I’m aware that it’s going to be sooner rather than later.”
Fortunately, Fonda positively responded to her chemotherapy. In a December update on her website, the actress shared, “Last week I was told by my oncologist that my cancer is in remission, and I can discontinue chemo. I am feeling so blessed, so fortunate.”
Despite feeling blessed, the 85-year-old actress has consistently maintained that she harbors no fear of death. The Academy Award-winner views death as an adventure and asserts that she is “not scared of dying.” During an appearance on “Who’s Talking to Chris Wallace,” Fonda expressed, “I kind of, you know… I don’t want to go – I still have a lot to do.”
“I’m truly afraid of reaching the end of life with numerous regrets when it’s too late to make amends,” Fonda expressed. While she acknowledges having “very few regrets,” she does harbor a desire to have been a different “kind of mother” to her children during their younger years. Reflecting on her children, whom she describes as talented and smart, she admitted, “I just didn’t know how to do it.”
Certainly, the legendary Jane Fonda will be missed by many, myself included, when the time comes. What about you? Are you a fan? Share your thoughts in the comments! Also, don’t forget to spread the love for Fonda by sharing this article on Facebook!